The 2026 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel award has officially narrowed its field to a three‑player shortlist, featuring Wigan Warriors’ hard‑working prop Brad O'Neill, fellow Wigan back Adam Keighran, and Leeds Rhinos’ electrifying full‑back Lachie Miller. The selection process was overseen by a distinguished panel composed entirely of former Man of Steel winners – Ellery Hanley, Sam Tomkins, James Roby, Joe Lydon and Paul Sculthorpe – who were tasked with sifting through an initial pool of twelve candidates and identifying the season's most outstanding performers. The panel convened on three separate occasions throughout the Super League campaign, each meeting covering a different segment of the schedule: the first meeting examined rounds 1‑9, the second focused on rounds 10‑18, and the third evaluated the final stretch, rounds 19‑27.
After each review, the judges produced a "top five" list for that particular third of the season. By the end of the process, a total of twelve players had appeared in at least one of those top‑five groupings. Those twelve were Brad O'Neill, Adam Keighran, Lachie Miller, Jake Connor, Umyla Hanley, Jez Litten, Tyrone May, Brodie Croft, Daryl Clark, Ash Handley, Bevan French and Jai Field. One of the most surprising outcomes was the omission of the reigning Man of Steel, Connor, from the final shortlist.
Connor enjoyed a spectacular season with Leeds Rhinos, delivering an astonishing 43 assists – almost double the next highest playmaker in the league – yet the panel decided his overall contribution did not merit a place among the final three. Similarly, Ellery Hanley, who managed to appear in the panel's top‑five for two separate thirds of the season (a feat matched only by O'Neill and Miller), fell short of the ultimate cut.
Brad O'Neill, the combative hooker from Wigan, has already secured the Rugby League Writers and Broadcasters Association (RLWBA) Player of the Year award. His influence has been pivotal in Wigan’s successful treble chase, helping the club capture the League Leaders' Shield, the Challenge Cup and a dominant performance in the Grand Final, which was decided in just 80 minutes. At 24 years of age, O'Neill combines ferocious tackling with precise distribution, and his durability has made him a cornerstone of Matt Peet’s side.
His relentless work rate, ability to win the battle at the ruck and consistently deliver clean, accurate passes have earned him widespread recognition across the league. Adam Keighran, the Australian full‑back who also plies his trade for Wigan, earned a place in the top‑five during the final third of the season. Over the regular campaign he crossed the try line 16 times and successfully kicked 107 goals, contributing heavily to the Warriors' points tally. Beyond his offensive statistics, Keighran has been praised for his hard‑hitting defensive work and his seamless partnership with prolific winger Zach Eckersley, whose own try‑scoring exploits have been instrumental for Wigan.
Lachie Miller, the Leeds Rhinos’ electrifying full‑back, has been a constant presence in the Man of Steel conversation from the very start of the season. In the panel’s first vote, covering the opening nine rounds, Miller topped the list, setting the tone for his campaign. His 166 tackle busts this term represent the highest total recorded by any player, underscoring his defensive tenacity. Offensively, Miller’s running game has lit up countless matches, providing Leeds with a dynamic attacking outlet that helped the Rhinos maintain a position near the top of the league for much of the year.
His ability to break the line, create extra‑man opportunities and finish scoring chances has made him a fan favourite and a key factor in Leeds’ push for the title. The Super League playoffs are currently in full swing, with matches being broadcast live on Sky Sports. The schedule includes: - Friday, 18 September: Wakefield Trinity 26‑16 Leigh Leopards - Saturday, 19 September: Warrington Wolves 35‑12 Hull KR - Semi‑Final 1 – Friday, 25 September: Leeds Rhinos vs Warrington Wolves, 8 pm kickoff on Sky Sports - Semi‑Final 2 – Saturday, 26 September: Wigan Warriors vs Wakefield Trinity, 5.30 pm kickoff on Sky Sports These fixtures will determine which two clubs advance to the Grand Final, set for 3 October at Old Trafford. As the playoffs progress, the three shortlisted players will continue to be scrutinised by fans, pundits and the selection panel alike, each hoping to add the coveted Man of Steel trophy to their personal accolades.
While the shortlist is now fixed, the debate over who truly deserves the honour remains lively. Supporters of Connor argue that his record‑breaking assist tally should have guaranteed him a place, while others point to O'Neill’s defensive dominance, Keighran’s all‑round contributions, and Miller’s explosive play as the qualities that define a Man of Steel. The final decision will be announced after the Grand Final, and whichever player lifts the award will have earned it through a season of consistent excellence, leadership on the field, and the ability to influence matches in decisive moments.
Regardless of the outcome, the 2026 Man of Steel race has highlighted the depth of talent within the Super League, showcasing players who excel in both attack and defence, who demonstrate resilience under pressure, and who embody the spirit of rugby league. The forthcoming Grand Final promises to be a fitting climax to a season where individual brilliance and team success have intertwined, and the eventual winner will join an elite roll of past recipients who have left an indelible mark on the sport.